Hundreds of authors urge PM to tackle child illiteracy

More than 500 writers - including Nick Hornby, Ian Rankin, Joanna Trollope, Kate Mosse and Alexander McCall Smith - have called on Gordon Brown to confront the issue of childhood illiteracy. The authors say they are deeply concerned about low levels of literacy, and have signed a letter to the prime minister calling for "a push" on the issue, so that "no child is left behind".

The writers cite official statistics that show one in five 11-year-olds leaving primary school is unable to read to the minimum standard for the age group. Children should be taught to read at school for an hour a day until they can do so properly, they say.

The call was made following Channel 4's Lost for Words series of campaigning programmes on the issue, including a three-part documentary which followed the experiences of Monteagle primary school in Dagenham, east London.

The school managed to double the number of children who were reading to their age levels after a drive by staff, parents and pupils.

Yesterday's letter says: "As authors, we are deeply concerned at the low levels of childhood literacy across Britain...In a complex world, reading has become increasingly important - if not crucial."

Ross, who is credited with introducing the Richard and Judy Book Club, added: "Total literacy in our schools is achievable. Monteagle went a long way to proving that.

"There are towns in India that have achieved 100% literacy. We shouldn't settle for less."

The Department for Children, Schools and Families said: "The literacy hour has ensured that more than 100,000 children more are now making the grade than was the case in 1997.

"We have brought in phonics across the primary curriculum, and introduced one-to-one tuition and small group schemes like Every Child a Reader for children who need extra help with literacy at school.

"Our children's plan reaffirms our commitment to create an even sharper focus on the basics of maths and English.

"Recent international studies have shown that parents must also play their part in ensuring their children have a love of reading. Next year we will kickstart the National Year of Reading to encourage more reading across the board."